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Black Studies Program

Marion Hayden

Marion Hayden is the orchestra's critically-acclaimed acoustic bassist. She has received rave reviews from publications ranging from the Detroit Free Press to the Boston Globe to the New York Times. As a freelance artist, Hayden has performed with a variety of jazz and popular artists including: Lionel Hampton, Ellis Marsalis, Kirk Lightsey, Martha Reeves (of Martha and the Vandellas), Michael Feinstein, Josh White Jr., Geri Allen and Curtis Fuller. Marion is also a co-founder of the jazz quintet Straight Ahead - a five woman ensemble that has recorded 3 records for Atlantic Jazz. As a bassist, Hayden's playing displays openness and mobility, tempered with an unwavering sense of time and a lyrical solo style. Hayden received formal training in music through private instruction and has done Masters studies at Michigan State University.